Diabetes and Children – Symptoms and Treatment

Diabetes is one of the fast growing disease among grown ups and children.

Most of the symptoms that are shown by adults and children are same. In a survey it is known that in China, 92 million people suffer from diabetes. Among them 5 percent are children.

The cause of diabetes in children may be due to genes and environmental triggers.

The most common symptoms of diabetes known are:
1. Thirst
2. Tiredness
3. Weight-loss
4. Frequent urination

The specific symptoms related to diabetes in children suffering are

1. Stomach aches i.e recurrent tummy pains
2. Headaches
3. Behavioral issues i.e, irritation

Children suffering from diabetes are depressed, feel lonely. Many schools who come to know about the facts that a child is suffering diabetes, start discriminating them and avoid joining them in their schools.

As we know diabetes is of two types type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes and children

Type 1 diabetes is also known as juvenile diabetes. It occurs when pancreas completely stops producing insulin.

In America researchers figured out that one in 40 children are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes and children

Type 2 diabetes in children is mainly due extremely poor diet with sedentary lifestyle without exercise.

If diagnosed in earlier stages it is possible to control type 2 diabetes by abrupt changes in lifestyle, healthier diet and exercise activity.

As Insulin is the most common medication given among adults to maintain blood sugar level, children are also given Insulin injections.

Parents should keep an eye on blood sugar levels of child avoiding random changes in it. They must monitor the diet of the child closely. The child should be given healthy and balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber.

The child needs to be given proper motivation and encouragement in all types of life activities so that child should be active.

There are two types complications associated with diabetes – Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.

Hypoglycemia is a condition where there is low blood sugar level in the body or it can be said that too much of insulin. It can be treated easily by giving glucose content foods and beverages. It is the most common among children.

Hyperglycemia is a conditions where there is high blood sugar level in the body or it can be said that low insulin level or use of insulin by cells is not up to the mark. It is complicated situated and it may lead to diabetic coma.

Though diabetes is a serious disease and complex issue, but with proper health care and treatment, children with diabetes today can lead a healthy, active and fun filled lives.

No related posts.